Are you ready to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and vibrant celebrations of Lunar New Year? Look no further than this carefully curated list of the 20 best books about Lunar New Year. From heartwarming children’s stories to insightful cultural guides, these books offer a diverse and captivating look at this auspicious holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned celebrant or a newcomer to the festivities, there’s a book on Lunar New Year for everyone. Dive into the colorful tapestry of Lunar New Year traditions with these captivating reads and gain a deeper understanding of this joyous occasion.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Lunar New Year Books
- 2 The Year of the Rat
- 3 The Year of the Dog
- 4 The Year of the Ox
- 5 The Year of the Rabbit
- 6 The Year of the Snake
- 7 The Year of the Horse
- 8 The Year of the Sheep
- 9 The Year of the Dragon
- 10 The Year of the Tiger
- 11 The Year of the Pig
- 12 The Year of the Ox: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac
- 13 The Year of the Rabbit: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac
- 14 The Year of the Snake: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac
- 15 Bringing In the New Year
- 16 My First Chinese New Year
- 17 New Clothes for New Year’s Day
- 18 Sam and the Lucky Money
- 19 Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas
- 20 Chelsea’s Chinese New Year
- 21 The Nian Monster
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Lunar New Year Books
- 23
20 Best Lunar New Year Books
The Year of the Rat
by Clare Furniss
The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss is a poignant and heart-wrenching coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of grief, loss, and the search for hope. This emotional rollercoaster of a book follows the story of fifteen-year-old Pearl as she navigates the aftermath of her mother’s sudden death. Set against the backdrop of the Chinese New Year, the book explores the themes of family, identity, and the struggle to find a sense of belonging in the midst of tragedy.
As Pearl grapples with the realities of her new life and the overwhelming emotions that come with it, readers are drawn into her world, experiencing her pain, confusion, and moments of unexpected joy. The Year of the Rat is a compelling and beautifully written novel that captures the essence of resilience and the human spirit. This book about lunar new year is a powerful reminder of the strength that can emerge from the depths of grief, and a celebration of the enduring bonds that hold us together.
The Year of the Dog
by Grace Lin
The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin is a heartwarming and humorous book about the lunar new year, told through the eyes of a young Taiwanese-American girl named Pacy. Pacy navigates her cultural identity and her place in the world as she celebrates the lunar new year with her family and friends. Throughout the book, Pacy learns about the traditions, customs, and significance of the lunar new year while also discovering her own interests and talents.
Grace Lin’s storytelling is engaging and relatable, making it a perfect read for young readers who want to learn more about the lunar new year and its cultural importance. The Year of the Dog is filled with charming illustrations and memorable characters that bring the holiday to life, making it a delightful and educational read for anyone interested in diverse traditions and celebrations.
The Year of the Ox
by Oliver Chin
Explore the vibrant and enchanting world of The Year of the Ox, a delightful children’s book about the lunar new year. Written by Oliver Chin, this charming story follows the adventures of a young ox named Buck who sets out to save his village from a menacing monster. Along the way, Buck encounters a host of colorful characters and learns valuable lessons about bravery, friendship, and the spirit of the lunar new year.
Chin’s engaging storytelling is complemented by the beautiful illustrations of Jeremiah Alcorn, bringing to life the rich traditions and customs of this festive time. Readers of all ages will be captivated by the heartwarming tale and the stunning artwork, making The Year of the Ox a perfect read for anyone looking to learn more about the lunar new year or simply enjoy a heartwarming story.
Whether you’re searching for a book about lunar new year traditions, or simply love a good adventure, The Year of the Ox is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression.
The Year of the Rabbit
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Rabbit by Oliver Chin is a delightful children’s book on the lunar new year. This heartwarming story follows a young girl named Rosa as she learns about the traditions and customs of the lunar new year from her grandmother. Through colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, readers are taken on a journey through the vibrant celebrations of the lunar new year. From dragon dances to delicious feasts, this book offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this festive occasion. With its emphasis on family, tradition, and the spirit of renewal, The Year of the Rabbit is a perfect read for anyone interested in learning more about this auspicious holiday. This book about lunar new year is sure to captivate young readers and adults alike, making it a wonderful addition to any library.
The Year of the Snake
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Snake is a delightful children’s book about the Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year. Written by Oliver Chin, this vibrant and engaging story follows a young girl named Su and her family as they prepare to celebrate the Year of the Snake. The book beautifully captures the traditions and customs of the Lunar New Year, from cleaning the house to making dumplings and receiving lucky red envelopes.
Readers will be immersed in the colorful illustrations and heartwarming story that teaches the values of family, tradition, and new beginnings. The Year of the Snake is a perfect choice for anyone looking to introduce their children to the rich cultural celebration of the Lunar New Year. With its engaging narrative and beautiful artwork, this book about the Lunar New Year is sure to captivate young readers and adults alike, making it a must-have for any library or bookshelf.
The Year of the Horse
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Horse by Oliver Chin is a captivating children’s book about the celebration of the Lunar New Year. This delightful story follows the adventures of a young girl named Su and her beloved horse, Goldy, as they prepare for the festivities of the Year of the Horse. Through vibrant illustrations and heartwarming storytelling, readers are immersed in the traditions and customs of this important cultural celebration.
Chin’s book about the Lunar New Year is a wonderful introduction for young readers to the customs and significance of this special time of year. The Year of the Horse is filled with colorful depictions of traditional dances, feasts, and family gatherings, providing an engaging and educational experience for children. This lunar new year book is a perfect addition to any library, offering a joyful and insightful exploration of a rich cultural tradition.
The Year of the Sheep
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Sheep by Oliver Chin is a delightful children’s book about the lunar new year. This charming story follows the adventures of the sheep as they navigate the challenges and joys of the lunar new year celebrations. The beautiful illustrations and engaging storytelling make this book a perfect choice for introducing young readers to the traditions and customs of the lunar new year.
Readers will be captivated by the sheep’s journey as they learn about the significance of the lunar new year and the importance of family and friendship. The Year of the Sheep is a heartwarming and educational book about the lunar new year that will resonate with children and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to teach kids about the lunar new year or simply want to enjoy a heartwarming story, The Year of the Sheep is a must-read lunar new year book.
The Year of the Dragon
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Dragon by Oliver Chin is an enchanting children’s book about the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. This delightful tale follows the young dragon, Theo, as he embarks on a journey to understand the significance of the Lunar New Year. Along the way, Theo learns about the traditions, customs, and symbols associated with this festive time of year.
Readers will be captivated by the colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, making it a perfect book for children to learn about the Lunar New Year. The Year of the Dragon is not just a book about the Lunar New Year, but also a heartwarming story about family, friendship, and the importance of tradition.
This Lunar New Year book is a wonderful addition to any library, providing a fun and educational way for children to learn about different cultures and celebrations. Whether it’s the Year of the Dragon or another animal, this book is sure to be a favorite during the festive season.
The Year of the Tiger
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Tiger, written by Oliver Chin, is an enchanting children’s book about the lunar new year. Through vibrant illustrations and captivating storytelling, readers are taken on a journey to experience the traditions and customs of this important holiday. The book follows the adventures of a young boy named Raymond, who is excited to celebrate the lunar new year with his family. As they prepare for the festivities, Raymond learns about the significance of the Year of the Tiger and the many ways people celebrate this special time of year. From dragon dances to delicious feasts, the book offers a delightful glimpse into the joyful spirit of the lunar new year. With its heartwarming message and colorful imagery, The Year of the Tiger is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a charming and educational book about lunar new year celebrations. This engaging story is sure to captivate young readers and leave them eager to learn more about this rich cultural tradition.
The Year of the Pig
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Pig by Oliver Chin is an enchanting children’s book about the Chinese zodiac and the lunar new year. It follows the adventurous journey of a little pig named Patty as she travels through the ancient Chinese zodiac to discover her place in the world. Along the way, she meets other animals from the zodiac and learns valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and determination.
This beautifully illustrated book about the lunar new year is not only entertaining but also educational, as it introduces young readers to the rich traditions and customs of Chinese culture. Through Patty’s experiences, children will gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the lunar new year and the twelve zodiac animals.
The Year of the Pig is a heartwarming and delightful story that celebrates the spirit of the lunar new year, making it a perfect read for families looking to learn more about this festive time of year.
The Year of the Ox: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Ox: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin is a delightful children’s book about the lunar new year. This charming story follows the adventures of a young ox named Siu who sets out on a journey to find his place in the world. Along the way, Siu encounters various animals from the Chinese zodiac, each offering him valuable lessons and guidance. The book is not only an entertaining read, but also a great way to introduce young readers to the traditions and customs of the lunar new year.
With colorful illustrations and a heartwarming storyline, The Year of the Ox is a perfect choice for parents and educators looking for a book about lunar new year that is both educational and entertaining. Through Siu’s journey, readers will learn about the significance of the lunar new year and the characteristics associated with the ox in Chinese culture. This lunar new year book is sure to captivate young minds and spark their curiosity about other cultures and traditions.
The Year of the Rabbit: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Rabbit: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin is an enchanting book about the lunar new year. This delightful tale follows the adventures of a young rabbit named Long who dreams of becoming an artist. Long encounters various challenges and learns important life lessons as he navigates through the vibrant world of the Chinese zodiac. The colorful illustrations and engaging storyline make this book a perfect introduction to the traditions and customs of the lunar new year for young readers.
Readers will be captivated by Long’s journey and will gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the lunar new year. The Year of the Rabbit is a heartwarming and educational book that celebrates the spirit of the lunar new year while also teaching valuable lessons about perseverance, creativity, and the importance of following one’s dreams. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about the traditions and folklore surrounding the Chinese zodiac and the lunar new year.
The Year of the Snake: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac
by Oliver Chin
The Year of the Snake: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin is a captivating book about the lunar new year. This beautifully illustrated children’s book follows the adventures of a snake named Long, who is on a quest to find his own place in the world. Long encounters various animals from the Chinese zodiac along the way, each with their own unique personality and traits. Through these encounters, Long learns about the importance of friendship, perseverance, and embracing one’s individuality.
The Year of the Snake is not only an entertaining story, but also serves as an introduction to the lunar new year and the Chinese zodiac for young readers. The vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling make this book a delightful way for children to learn about the lunar new year and its traditions. With its heartwarming message and cultural significance, The Year of the Snake is a must-read for anyone looking to celebrate the lunar new year with their little ones.
Bringing In the New Year
by Grace Lin
Bringing In the New Year by Grace Lin is a delightful picture book that celebrates the joy and traditions of the Lunar New Year. The story follows a Chinese-American family as they prepare for and participate in the festivities of this important holiday. From cleaning the house to hanging decorations and enjoying festive foods, the family comes together to welcome the ‘book on lunar new year’ with excitement and anticipation.
Grace Lin’s vibrant illustrations beautifully capture the colors and customs of the celebration, making it a visually engaging read for young readers. The book also includes a helpful glossary of Lunar New Year terms and a note from the author about her own experiences celebrating the holiday.
With its engaging storytelling and cultural insight, Bringing In the New Year is a perfect ‘lunar new year book’ for families looking to learn about or celebrate this special time of year. It is a heartwarming and informative ‘book about lunar new year’ that will leave readers of all ages feeling festive and inspired.
My First Chinese New Year
by Karen Katz
My First Chinese New Year by Karen Katz is a delightful board book that introduces young readers to the joyous celebration of the Lunar New Year. Through vibrant illustrations and simple text, the book follows a little girl as she experiences the traditions and customs of this festive holiday.
Readers will be captivated by the colorful depictions of dragon dances, fireworks, delicious food, and the giving of red envelopes. The book also provides a brief explanation of the significance of the Lunar New Year, making it educational as well as entertaining.
With its sturdy pages and interactive elements, such as lift-the-flap surprises, this book is perfect for little hands to explore. It’s an engaging introduction to the Lunar New Year for toddlers and preschoolers, and a great way for families to share and learn about this important cultural celebration together.
Overall, My First Chinese New Year is a charming and informative book about the Lunar New Year that is sure to enchant young readers and their families.
New Clothes for New Year’s Day
by Hyun-joo Bae
New Clothes for New Year’s Day by Hyun-joo Bae is a heartwarming children’s book about the Korean tradition of Seollal, the lunar new year. The story follows little Soo as she eagerly prepares for the special holiday by getting her new hanbok, the traditional Korean dress. Soo’s excitement is palpable as she tries on her beautiful new clothes, and she can’t wait to show them off to her family and friends during the New Year’s Day festivities.
Hyun-joo Bae’s delightful illustrations bring to life the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the hanbok, while also capturing the joy and anticipation of the holiday. The book not only offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Korea, but also celebrates the universal themes of family, tradition, and new beginnings.
With its engaging storyline and captivating artwork, New Clothes for New Year’s Day is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a charming and educational book about the lunar new year. It’s a delightful read for children and adults alike, and a wonderful addition to any library of diverse children’s literature.
Sam and the Lucky Money
by Karen Chinn
Sam and the Lucky Money is a heartwarming book about a young boy named Sam who is excited to receive lucky money for the Lunar New Year. As he sets out to spend his money, Sam encounters several people in need, and he must make important decisions about how to use his lucky money wisely. This touching story, written by Karen Chinn, beautifully captures the spirit of the Lunar New Year and the values of compassion and generosity.
Readers will be drawn into Sam’s world as he navigates the bustling streets of Chinatown, encountering colorful sights and sounds along the way. Through Sam’s journey, the book teaches important lessons about empathy and the true meaning of wealth. With vibrant illustrations by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu, this book is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a heartwarming and culturally rich story to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas
by Natasha Yim
Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas is a delightful children’s book on Lunar New Year written by Natasha Yim. The story is a charming twist on the classic tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, set in a Chinese American household during the Lunar New Year celebration. Goldy Luck is tasked with delivering turnip cakes to her neighbors, the Chans, but she accidentally spills the cakes and enters the Chans’ home to make more. Inside, she encounters the three mischievous pandas and their well-meaning but forgetful parents. The story unfolds with themes of kindness, forgiveness, and the importance of family and tradition.
The book about Lunar New Year is beautifully illustrated and provides a wonderful introduction to the customs and traditions associated with the holiday, making it a perfect addition to any family’s Lunar New Year celebrations. Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas is sure to captivate young readers and spark their interest in the colorful and joyous festivities of this special time of year.
Chelsea’s Chinese New Year
by Lisa Bullard
Chelsea’s Chinese New Year by Lisa Bullard is a delightful children’s book about the Lunar New Year. The story follows Chelsea as she prepares to celebrate the Chinese New Year with her family. As she helps clean the house and make special decorations, Chelsea learns about the customs and traditions associated with this festive holiday. From making dumplings to receiving lucky red envelopes, readers will be immersed in the colorful and lively celebrations of the Lunar New Year.
This book provides an engaging and educational introduction to the Lunar New Year for young readers, offering insights into the significance of the holiday and how it is celebrated. The vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, making it an enjoyable and immersive reading experience. Chelsea’s Chinese New Year is a perfect choice for parents and educators looking for a culturally enriching book about the Lunar New Year to share with children.
The Nian Monster
by Andrea Wang
The Nian Monster by Andrea Wang is a delightful and heartwarming book about Lunar New Year. The story follows a young girl named Xingling who must outsmart the fearsome Nian Monster that terrorizes her village every year during the celebration of the Lunar New Year. With the help of her grandmother and some quick thinking, Xingling devises a clever plan to defeat the Nian Monster and save her village from its terrifying clutches.
This book on Lunar New Year beautifully weaves in the cultural traditions and customs of the holiday, making it a perfect read for families looking to learn more about this festive time of year. The vibrant and engaging illustrations bring the story to life, making it a visually captivating experience for readers of all ages. The Nian Monster is a wonderful Lunar New Year book that celebrates bravery, ingenuity, and the power of community, making it a must-read for anyone looking to explore the rich traditions of this beloved holiday.
Final Thoughts on Best Lunar New Year Books
These 20 books about Lunar New Year offer a rich and diverse exploration of the traditions, customs, and significance of this important cultural celebration. From picture books for young readers to in-depth historical accounts, there is something for everyone to learn and enjoy. Whether you’re looking to delve into the mythology and folklore surrounding the lunar new year or simply want to celebrate with some festive stories, these books are sure to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this special holiday.
Which book about Lunar New Year is best?
The best book on Lunar New Year can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss,
- The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin,
- The Year of the Ox by Oliver Chin.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Lunar New Year?
For those looking to learn about Lunar New Year, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss,
- The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin,
- The Year of the Ox by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Rabbit by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Snake by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Horse by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Sheep by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Dragon by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Tiger by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Pig by Oliver Chin
These books offer a range of perspectives on Lunar New Year, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Lunar New Year?
The best books about Lunar New Year are:
- The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss,
- The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin,
- The Year of the Ox: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Rabbit: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Dragon by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Horse by Oliver Chin.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Lunar New Year are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Lunar New Year books of all time?
Choosing the best Lunar New Year books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss,
- The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin,
- The Year of the Snake by Oliver Chin,
- The Year of the Dragon by Oliver Chin,
- and The Year of the Ox: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Lunar New Year and continues to be influential today.